Bigleaf Hydrangea
hydrangea macrophylla
Also known as: ["French Hydrangea","Mophead Hydrangea","Lacecap Hydrangea"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub known for its large, showy flower heads that can vary in color from blue to pink depending on soil pH.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Cornales |
| Family: | Hydrangeaceae |
| Genus: | Hydrangea |
| Botanical Name: | Hydrangea macrophylla |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: partially shaded garden bed or container with protection from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates, rarely required in humid environments
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with organic matter (compost or well-rotted manure).
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, immediately after flowering to avoid cutting off next year’s buds.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old stems and dead flowers annually.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade (4–6 hours of morning sun, filtered afternoon light). Adjust for seasonal changes, providing more shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching. Place in dappled shade outdoors or near an east-facing window indoors. Protect from harsh afternoon sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade, protected from harsh afternoon sun
Avoid full afternoon sun; provide shade during peak heat; rotate plants for even light exposure.
Watering
every 3–5 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, and prioritize morning watering to reduce fungal risk.
Soil
moist, well-draining, rich in organic matter
pH: Acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5) for blue flowers; slightly alkaline (pH 6.0–7.0) for pink flowers.
Ensure good drainage; maintain consistent moisture; adjust pH for desired flower color.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C) during active growth. Tolerates cooler temperatures but avoids prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C).
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leaf burn; fertilize before new growth emerges; cease fertilizing in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (softwood or semi-hardwood) taken in late spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem.
- Cut below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or coarse sand for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone (auxin-based) is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; plants may take a full growing season to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent blooms; thin out crowded or weak stems; cut back to a healthy bud or lateral branch.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, encourage airflow, and promote abundant flowering by removing old wood and spent blooms.
Tools
Clean bypass pruners, pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim rootbound roots; add fresh, well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; inspect roots; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches. Avoid wetting foliage, and ensure water drains freely to prevent root rot. Water in the morning for optimal absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply 1–2 times per week during active growth, increasing to 2–3 times weekly in hot, dry weather. Reduce frequency in winter to once every 2–3 weeks. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost to enhance fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf scorch in excessive heat; wilting or bud drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth, cause leaf drop, and may damage flower buds, leading to reduced blooms.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location. Apply a thick layer of mulch to protect roots in-ground. Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat causes wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering due to water stress and metabolic disruption.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering frequency, and use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; avoid late-season feeding; follow package instructions.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (10-10-10) in early spring, followed by a second application after the first bloom. Dilute liquid fertilizers to half-strength if used monthly during growing season.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are sensitive to the cyanogenic glycosides in Hydrangea macrophylla, which can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal distress upon ingestion. The physiological impact is primarily digestive, though more severe reactions are possible in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Hydrangea macrophylla can lead to mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of cyanogenic glycosides. The effects are typically not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicHydrangea macrophylla contains cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide upon ingestion. The toxicity is generally mild to moderate, causing gastrointestinal discomfort and other symptoms. The physiological impact is primarily localized to the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I change the color of my Hydrangea flowers?
A: The flower color is influenced by soil pH; acidic soils (pH below 6.0) produce blue flowers, while alkaline soils (pH above 7.0) produce pink flowers.
Q: Why are the leaves on my Hydrangea turning yellow?
A: Yellowing leaves can indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or poor drainage. Ensure the plant is receiving adequate sunlight and proper watering.
Q: When is the best time to prune Hydrangea macrophylla?
A: Prune immediately after flowering, as these plants bloom on old wood. Late pruning can remove next year's flower buds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Hydrangeaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade, protected from |
| Water: | every 3–5 days during active |
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